Topics to avoid during a first interview:
- Salary
- Benefits
- Vacations
- Flex time
- Raises
- Family Responsibilities
Focus on the job and only the job until the potential employer makes an offer.
You want the client to know that you are interested in the company and what you have to offer them. Timing is everything. These types of specific questions DO have a time and place, but it is not on the first interview.
Your Turn
It is both valid and expected that you will have questions for the person who interviews you. Do your homework! Know about the company---it's mission and long term goals. Have three or four specific, generic questions ready to show that you are seriously pursuing this opportunity.
These questions can be used at the end of the interview. Generally, the interviewer asks "Do you have any questions for me?" If you do not hear this, ask if the interviewer has time to answer a few general questions. Know that if you are being sent on to a second interview within the company, it is highly likely these questions will be answered as you progress.
- Does this position offer an opportunity for career growth?
- Does your company have a policy on promotions from within?
- What standards are used for employee evaluation? Yearly?
- Why do you like working for this organization/firm/company?
- When will the hiring decision be made?
- What is the next step in the hiring process?
Interview Tips:
You never get a second chance to make a first impression!
Dress for success. Dress conservatively - make sure you know the corporate dress code, and err on the side of being conservative. Your appearance should always be neat - make sure clothing is clean and pressed and not too revealing.
Be mindful of your cologne; too much can overpower the senses, and can even cause an unintended allergic reaction to a co-worker.
Get a good night's sleep before every work day, but especially on the first day of a new assignment. You'll look refreshed and you'll be sharp and alert.
Be pleasant, but not overly chatty. It's great to get to know your new coworkers, but save visiting time for lunch or a break. Everyone will get some work done and you won't be perceived as 'pesky'.
Listen carefully when a project or assignment is being explained to you. Don't be afraid to ask questions, and don't be afraid to admit if you don't understand something.
Arrive early for your new assignment and make sure you understand the directions to the location. If you're not familiar with the area, it doesn't hurt to find the location a day or two before you start.
Stay busy. When you finish a task, ask what else you can do. Never sit idle; it gives the impression that you lack motivation.
Never leave without saying goodbye. You likely will need to have your timesheet signed, anyway, but always announce your departure. It's good manners and promotes the impression that you are not sneaking away.
Here are some questions you can expect during an interview. Think about your answers, and practice saying them until you can answer them with confidence.
Tell me about yourself. Avoid personal statements; this question refers to your work-related self. Keep it simple; two simple statements are best. This is not the time to review your resume and work history. That comes later.
How does your education equip you for the job? No matter what schooling you have had, you have been prepared in some way for this position. Be creative, but not far-fetched with your response.
Why do you want to work for us? If you did your homework and are familiar with the company, you should have at least two reasons. Benefits, opportunities, and work environment are always good answers.
What are your long and short-term goals? Keep these goals in line with the company's mission. If you want to be a medical technician and are applying for an administrative assistant in the marketing department, make certain you keep the goal related to the job. Employers seldom hire people whose goals do not indicate they will be part of the long-term team.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Only one place. Working as a critical member of the ABC Company. Keep your sights in line with the job. Don't get over anxious. An interviewer doesn't want to hear that anyone wants his/her job.
What are your greatest strengths? Have two or three SHORT examples ready. Have specific examples ready, but don't go into this detail unless you are asked to.
What are your weaknesses? Most interviewers will ask this question and no one wants to know you have any! Be ready for this question with a response like: "Can I tell you how I turned a challenge into an opportunity?" or "My weaknesses have been learning experiences."
What things are most important to you in a job? This is as much about the company as it is about you. Tailor your answer to the types of things that are directly related to the position for which you are applying, as well as to the corporate culture.